How much down payment do I need as a first-time buyer in Florida?

First-time buyers in Florida can purchase with as little as 3.5% down using an FHA loan, 3% down with a conventional loan, or 0% down with VA or USDA programs. Down payment assistance programs are also available that can reduce out-of-pocket costs further.

What is the FHA loan limit in Florida for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in most Florida counties for 2026 is $524,225 for a single-family home. Higher limits apply in high-cost counties.

Are there down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers in Florida?

Yes. Florida Housing Finance Corporation offers programs like FL Assist (up to $10,000 deferred, 0% interest) and FL HLP (up to $10,000 at 3%). Many counties also have their own down payment assistance programs with additional funds.

Edge Home FinanceNMLS #891464Nicholas Menard · NMLS #202425Licensed Mortgage Professional

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Edge Home Finance · First-Time Buyer Series

The First-Time
Home Buyer's
Guide

Everything you need to navigate the home buying process with confidence — from credit and pre-qualification through closing day. Seventeen pages of straightforward, expert guidance. Yours at no cost.

01Pre-Qualification: Your First & Most Important Step

02Credit Guidelines & Score Tiers

03Down Payment Requirements

04Gift Funds for Your Down Payment

05Student Loans & Your Mortgage

06–08Inspection, Appraisal & Closing Checklist

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Inside the Guide

Eight Chapters Covering Everything
You Need to Buy with Confidence

Pre-Qualification

Know your budget, monthly payment, and loan options before you ever tour a home.

Credit Guidelines

Understand credit score tiers and exactly how to strengthen your profile before you apply.

Down Payment Requirements

From 0% VA to 3.5% FHA — learn which program fits your situation and budget.

Gift Funds

Family contributing to your down payment? Learn the rules, gift letter requirements, and assistance programs.

Student Loans & DTI

How deferred, IDR, or defaulted loans affect your mortgage — and the strategies to address them.

Home Inspection

Never waive the inspection. Learn what's evaluated, what risks to watch for, and your options afterward.

Property Appraisal

How appraisals work, what happens when a property comes in low, and how to protect your position.

Home Buying Checklist

A four-phase checklist from pre-search through closing day — so nothing is overlooked.

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The First-TimeHome Buyer'sGuide